20/07/2023 09:51
For many Motability customers, the thought of a holiday packed with queues, transfers, and delays can feel overly stressful. However, did you know you can take your Motability car abroad? This provides the ideal solution for individuals who want to explore, knowing their transport needs are taken care of.
There are just a few things you need to know before you set off. Continue reading to learn more.
You can take your Motability car abroad (within the European Union and to Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Lichenstein) for up to 90 days within a 12-month period. If you want to go for any longer than this, you will need to contact Motability directly on 0300 456 4566.
Before you begin your trip make sure you have the following:
- A valid VE103 certificate – this proves you are allowed to take your car abroad. You can request one from RAC Motability Assist on 0800 731 3310. Please note, you will need to do this at least three weeks before you travel.
- Your driving licence – remember to keep your driving licence with you when you travel in case it is requested by the authorities. If your licence is damaged, lost, or stolen, you will need to apply for a new one before you travel.
- Vehicle logbook and certificate of motor insurance – it is useful to have these in case they are requested by the authorities when you’re away.
- European breakdown cover – when you request your VE103 you need to add RAC European Breakdown Cover. Don’t worry, the cost is included in your Motability package, so there’s nothing further to pay.
- A European Accident Statement form – this is handy to have in the unfortunate event of an accident. It allows you to easily exchange details with the other driver(s) without a language barrier complicating the process.
It is important to check the driving rules in the country you are visiting.
Remember, most European countries drive on the right-hand side of the road. As well as getting used to this, you will also need to add headlight beam converters to your car. This prevents dazzling oncoming road users, due to the position of lights on right-hand drive vehicles.
Additionally, European speed limit signs will most likely be shown in kilometres per hour, so it’s useful to know the conversion.
Some European countries require you to have a high-visibility jacket and warning triangle in your car boot. Most countries also require you to display a ‘UK’ sticker on your car too.
If you are driving within the EU, your UK driving licence should be sufficient. However, some countries do require you to have an International Driving Permit (IDP). You can check this out on the Government website.
A simple online search about the rules in the country you’re visiting should provide helpful guidance so you can feel prepared in advance.
One thing is for sure, you’ll want to travel in style on your next holiday! Browse our latest Motability offers to find the perfect car for your summer road trip.